DIY: Physical Computing at Play (a preview)

Friday, when most everyone had left campus for the long weekend, we held a meeting in the library stairwell. Tennis balls were bounced, connections were tested and code was altered, all in preparation for the next Science Cafe. I’ve been planning the event with two designers I’ve worked with in my L.A. past, Michael Newman and Scott Hutchinson, and I’ve had to stretch my imagination to keep up with their vision. It involves using the grand staircase in Kennedy Library as a giant game board.

Yes, we’ll shut down the stairwell for about an hour on February 10 to test the game using tennis balls and circuits. The aim will be something like this: try to hit the switch (a can) with a tennis ball to beat the other team. Scores will be translated and displayed on nearby monitors. The winner gets lots of glory.

Here are photos of Michael and Scott’s pre-event make and test. Both workshop presenters are artists and excited about the idea of working with teams of people from all disciplines.

So, join us for a morning of making, strategizing and playing as we extend computers into the physical space to create a large-scale, interactive game in the library. Arduinos, breadboards, circuits and code all factor into the equation in a hands-on workshop that is open to everyone, regardless of experience. You can read more about the event and Scott and Michael at Kennedy Library Science Cafe. This event is co-sponsored by the Cal Poly Robotics Club.

Science Cafe is Friday, February 10 from 11am-12:30pm in the cafe area on the 2nd floor of the Kennedy Library. Refreshments will be served and games will be played!